Exploring Smarter Cars and Robotics: Insights from the 2026 World Science and Technology Development Forum
On October 21, 2026, the World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF) commenced in Chongqing, China, drawing around 800 participants including experts, scholars, and industry leaders. This year's theme was centered on the integration of applying advanced technologies in the automotive sector, robotics, and effective disease prevention strategies. The forum provided a platform for discussions on how futuristic industry trends can reshape our society.
The opening ceremony featured remarks from key figures like Wang Guangqian, the President of the China Association for Science and Technology. Wang highlighted the importance of technological breakthroughs and the close interlinking of innovation, green development, and technology governance. He stressed that future industries need to operate at the intersection of technology and economy.
Another notable speaker, Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, emphasized the role of engineering as a critical bridge between scientific advancements and practical industrial applications. He underscored the necessity of international cooperation to meet the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, advocating that every nation and community participate actively in these endeavors.
Among the prominent discussions was Zhu Huarong, Chairman of China Changan Automobile Group, who pointed out the evolution of vehicles from mere means of transport to smart, self-evolving robotic cars. He discussed how the automotive industry is now fusing artificial intelligence, advanced chips, and big data, extending into realms like energy consumption and urban governance. In Chongqing specifically, technologies enabling vehicle-to-cloud communication assist in effective traffic management, while innovative systems are transforming vehicles into mobile elements of renewable energy networks.
At the forum, David Lopez Perez, a professor from Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, shared insights into the next generation of robots that could assist in various sectors. From urban drones to humanoid caretakers designed for the elderly, he noted that these robots must integrate nuanced decision-making capabilities, coordinating tasks and reasoning through complex scenarios, enabled by advancements in digital twins, intelligent systems, and future 6G networks. He also stressed the importance of interoperability and standardization in these technologies to ensure their efficiency and reliability.
Nils Stenseth from the University of Oslo presented an intriguing study using air travel data to create a digital twin model aimed at preventing local epidemics from spiraling into global pandemics. His discussion highlighted the significance of utilizing multisource data combined with digital technologies to build robust global surveillance networks that are vital for monitoring emerging pathogens.
These discussions showcased the essential nature of interdisciplinary and international collaboration in turning advanced technologies into practical solutions benefiting society at large. The forum also unveiled the Top 10 Science and Technology Foresights for 2026, which included advancements in AI, brain-computer interfaces, and the potential of space resource development alongside an intelligent sensing industry map which offers a roadmap for future innovations.
This year marked the forum's return to Chongqing for the first time since its inception in 2019, and it continued through October 23, featuring a variety of specialized subforums on topics like intelligent sensing, AI simulations, smart manufacturing, and sustainable energy solutions.
The WSTDF's focus on these crucial areas signals the urgent need to harness emerging technologies effectively, underscoring a collaborative effort towards a smarter, more sustainable future.
The opening ceremony featured remarks from key figures like Wang Guangqian, the President of the China Association for Science and Technology. Wang highlighted the importance of technological breakthroughs and the close interlinking of innovation, green development, and technology governance. He stressed that future industries need to operate at the intersection of technology and economy.
Another notable speaker, Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, emphasized the role of engineering as a critical bridge between scientific advancements and practical industrial applications. He underscored the necessity of international cooperation to meet the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, advocating that every nation and community participate actively in these endeavors.
Among the prominent discussions was Zhu Huarong, Chairman of China Changan Automobile Group, who pointed out the evolution of vehicles from mere means of transport to smart, self-evolving robotic cars. He discussed how the automotive industry is now fusing artificial intelligence, advanced chips, and big data, extending into realms like energy consumption and urban governance. In Chongqing specifically, technologies enabling vehicle-to-cloud communication assist in effective traffic management, while innovative systems are transforming vehicles into mobile elements of renewable energy networks.
At the forum, David Lopez Perez, a professor from Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, shared insights into the next generation of robots that could assist in various sectors. From urban drones to humanoid caretakers designed for the elderly, he noted that these robots must integrate nuanced decision-making capabilities, coordinating tasks and reasoning through complex scenarios, enabled by advancements in digital twins, intelligent systems, and future 6G networks. He also stressed the importance of interoperability and standardization in these technologies to ensure their efficiency and reliability.
Nils Stenseth from the University of Oslo presented an intriguing study using air travel data to create a digital twin model aimed at preventing local epidemics from spiraling into global pandemics. His discussion highlighted the significance of utilizing multisource data combined with digital technologies to build robust global surveillance networks that are vital for monitoring emerging pathogens.
These discussions showcased the essential nature of interdisciplinary and international collaboration in turning advanced technologies into practical solutions benefiting society at large. The forum also unveiled the Top 10 Science and Technology Foresights for 2026, which included advancements in AI, brain-computer interfaces, and the potential of space resource development alongside an intelligent sensing industry map which offers a roadmap for future innovations.
This year marked the forum's return to Chongqing for the first time since its inception in 2019, and it continued through October 23, featuring a variety of specialized subforums on topics like intelligent sensing, AI simulations, smart manufacturing, and sustainable energy solutions.
The WSTDF's focus on these crucial areas signals the urgent need to harness emerging technologies effectively, underscoring a collaborative effort towards a smarter, more sustainable future.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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